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 This steam is used to rotate turbines and generate electricity.

Merits of geothermal Energy

1. Geothermal energy is the most versatile and least polluting renewable source of
energy.

2. It can be harnessed for 24 hours throughout the year.

3. Geothermal energy is relatively inexpensive.

4. As compared to solar energy and wind energy, the power generation level of

geothermal energy is higher.

5. Geothermal energy can be used for power generation as well as direct heating. In

USA, water is pumped from underground hot water deposits and is used to heat
houses.

Limitations of Geothermal Energy

1. Geothermal hot spots are scattered and usually some distance away from the areas

that need energy.

2. The overall power production has a lower efficiency (about 15%) as compared to that

of fossil fuels (35% to 40%).

3. Though as a whole, geothermal energy is inexhaustible, a single by ore has a limited
life span of about 10 years.

4. Noise pollution is caused by drilling operations at geothermal sites.